21155, Upperco, Maryland Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 21155, Upperco, Maryland is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Lung Cancer Care Near Westminster, Maryland (ZIP Code 21155): A Comprehensive Review**

Navigating a lung cancer diagnosis is overwhelming. This review provides a fact-rich overview of hospitals near Westminster, Maryland (ZIP Code 21155), focusing on key factors for lung cancer care. We’ll examine hospital quality, specialty services, and accessibility to help you make informed decisions.

**Hospital Quality and CMS Star Ratings**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) uses a star rating system to evaluate hospitals based on quality and patient experience. While no hospitals *within* the 21155 ZIP code are independently rated by CMS, several regional hospitals are accessible and relevant.

* **Carroll Hospital (Westminster, MD):** While *within* the 21157 ZIP code, Carroll Hospital is the closest full-service hospital to 21155. It is a member of LifeBridge Health. CMS gives Carroll Hospital a 3-star rating.

* **University of Maryland Medical Center (Baltimore, MD):** Located approximately 40 miles from Westminster, the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) is a major academic medical center. UMMC has a 3-star CMS rating.

* **Johns Hopkins Hospital (Baltimore, MD):** A world-renowned institution, Johns Hopkins Hospital is about an hour's drive from Westminster. Johns Hopkins consistently receives high marks for quality and is often considered among the best hospitals in the nation. Johns Hopkins Hospital has a 4-star CMS rating.

* **MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center (Baltimore, MD):** Located approximately 30 miles from Westminster, MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center is another option. It has a 3-star CMS rating.

**Emergency Room Wait Times**

ER wait times are a crucial factor, especially in a crisis. However, it is difficult to give precise, real-time data. Wait times fluctuate based on the day, time, and patient volume. You can often find estimated wait times on hospital websites or through online search tools.

* **Carroll Hospital:** As the closest hospital, Carroll Hospital's ER wait times are a critical consideration for 21155 residents. Check their website or call the hospital directly for the most up-to-date information.

* **University of Maryland Medical Center:** Due to its size and patient volume, UMMC's ER wait times can be longer.

* **Johns Hopkins Hospital:** Expect potentially longer wait times at Johns Hopkins Hospital's ER due to its reputation and patient volume.

* **MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center:** ER wait times at MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center can vary, so check their website or call ahead.

**Specialty Centers and Lung Cancer Expertise**

Lung cancer treatment requires a multidisciplinary approach. Look for hospitals with dedicated cancer centers and specialized teams.

* **Carroll Hospital:** Carroll Hospital has a cancer center that provides comprehensive cancer care, including lung cancer treatment. They offer medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology services.

* **University of Maryland Medical Center:** UMMC's Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated cancer center, offering advanced lung cancer treatment options, clinical trials, and specialized expertise.

* **Johns Hopkins Hospital:** The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins is a world leader in cancer research and treatment. They offer cutting-edge lung cancer therapies, including immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and advanced surgical techniques. Johns Hopkins has a strong reputation for its lung cancer program.

* **MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center:** MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center offers cancer care services, including lung cancer treatment. They have medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and surgical oncologists.

**Lung Cancer Screening Programs**

Early detection is critical for lung cancer survival. Look for hospitals that offer lung cancer screening programs, particularly low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans.

* **Carroll Hospital:** Carroll Hospital offers lung cancer screening. Check their website or contact them directly for eligibility criteria and scheduling information.

* **University of Maryland Medical Center:** UMMC provides lung cancer screening services.

* **Johns Hopkins Hospital:** Johns Hopkins offers lung cancer screening programs.

* **MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center:** MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center offers lung cancer screening.

**Telehealth and Virtual Care Options**

Telehealth can improve access to care, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations.

* **Carroll Hospital:** Carroll Hospital likely offers some telehealth services, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. Check their website or call for details.

* **University of Maryland Medical Center:** UMMC has expanded its telehealth offerings, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring.

* **Johns Hopkins Hospital:** Johns Hopkins has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual visits and remote patient monitoring.

* **MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center:** MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center likely offers telehealth services.

**Access to Clinical Trials**

Clinical trials offer access to innovative treatments.

* **University of Maryland Medical Center:** As an NCI-designated cancer center, UMMC has a wide range of clinical trials for lung cancer patients.

* **Johns Hopkins Hospital:** Johns Hopkins is a leader in clinical research and offers numerous lung cancer clinical trials.

**Patient Experience and Reviews**

Patient reviews and testimonials can provide insights into a hospital's quality of care and patient experience. Websites like Healthgrades, Vitals, and the hospital's own website can provide valuable information.

**Other Considerations**

* **Proximity:** Consider the distance to the hospital and ease of access.

* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital and its specialists are in your insurance network.

* **Support Services:** Look for hospitals that offer support services such as patient navigators, support groups, and palliative care.

**Conclusion**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer care is a personal decision. This review provides a starting point for your research. Prioritize hospitals with strong lung cancer programs, experienced specialists, and access to advanced treatments. Consider the factors discussed here, including CMS ratings, ER wait times, specialty services, and telehealth options, to make the best decision for your individual needs. Consult with your primary care physician and seek referrals to specialists to guide you through the process.